Throwable light source and network for operating the same

ABSTRACT

A light source suitable for being thrown or projected into an airborne trajectory for the purpose of illuminating a subject or environment; and a system of light sources on a wireless network for the purpose of operating in collaboration to illuminate a subject or environment; and accessory devices on the wireless network including cameras and remote control devices; and a throwable light source streamlined to reduce drag when projected into a long-range trajectory.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention has generally to do with light sources thrown orprojected into an airborne trajectory, and a wireless network foroperating light sources thrown or projected into an airborne trajectoryalong with accessory devices on the network such as synchronizedcameras.

2. Description of Related Art

Handheld throwable lights and projectiles with embedded lights exist inprior art with suggested uses for tactical uses and general recreation.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,152,323 teaches of a throwable light source with amulti-part housing, comprised of two portions meeting at a releasablethreaded interconnection. The releasable threaded interconnectionpresents an opportunity for undesirable tampering in a tacticalenvironment. A seam of interconnection, characterized by overlappingregions of varying thickness with forces acting on opposing threads andsurfaces, may present undesirable vulnerabilities upon a high G impact.A manually activated switch as described presents an opportunity forundesirable tampering in a tactical environment.

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/768,833 teaches of an orientabletactical light containing a light source that may be positioned in thehousing to emit light in a predetermined direction relative to thecenter of gravity.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,610,916 teaches of a throwable light comprising a motiondetecting switch and a timer.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,831,699 teaches of a self-righting monitoring device,describing a substantially ovoid shaped housing with a planar region.The planar region teaches of a stabilizing surface for image capture.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,030,851 describes a switchable induction light.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to lights in impact-resistant housingsthat can be thrown or projected into a remote location for the purposeof illuminating an environment or subject

A throwable light source can be improved by providing insulating meansto protect embedded electronics. One method for insulating an electroniccircuit from unwarranted tampering while also improving impactresistance is by manufacturing the housing as a single unified part. Amethod for insulating a throwable light source from tampering is bycoupling its battery with an induction receiver embedded within thelight's housing. The induction charged battery-powered throwable lightsource can be economically reused many times, if desired.

The throwable light source disclosed herein can be a battery-operatedhigh-intensity light. One type of light source which has been found tobe effective is a white light-emitting-diode (LED). An infrared LEDlight source is useful for illuminating dark environments withoutemitting light in the visible spectrum.

In one aspect, means are disclosed to prevent accidental activation ofthe throwable light source, to ensure that a throw from the user's handor a pitch by mechanism such as a pitching machine is successful, with athrowable light source approaching or reaching a desired destinationbefore activation is initiated.

The throwable lights of this invention can be used individually or ingroups on a wireless network. Microcontrollers allow for the integrationof sensors, switches and networks within the light's housing, making itpossible for the intensity and action of lights to be controlledremotely. Lights may be controlled by self-contained logic capable ofsensing external events. Lights may communicate these events to oneanother in order to produce a particular lighting effect.

The throwable light disclosed herein can be used with an associatedthrowable camera, activating one or more light sources synchronouslywith the camera to illuminate a scene for the capture of a photograph,or synchronized in a series of successive stroboscopic flashes toproduce a motion picture or video. The throwable light may transmitcommands and status information such as the state of activationwirelessly to a remote device such as a remote camera, and may receivecommands such as timer synchronization commands from remote devices.

The throwable light described herein may be activated by a user withoutrevealing the user's location or the path of the trajectory. The lightcan be adapted to be activated in a dark environment. The light can beadapted with haptic feedback means to signal its status to the userwithout revealing the user's location by presenting a visible indicator.

The throwable light of this invention may include weighting means withinits housing to improve trajectory distance, and housing shape andsurface adaptations to improve aerodynamic performance. An oblatehousing shape can increase trajectory range by reducing drag and alsocan be adapted to emit light in a predetermined direction relative tothe landing surface at the end of a thrown or projected trajectory.

While the lights are adapted to be thrown by hand, either individuallyor in sets or groups of two or more, the lights may be projected by anyother suitable means from a device as simple as a slingshot to along-range gas (CO₂)-powered launcher,such as used to fire paint-balls.Spring-powered launchers and gunpowder-powered launchers can also beused to fire individual lights, or groups of lights.

Various other objects, features and attendant advantages of the presentdisclosure will be more fully appreciated as the same becomes betterunderstood from the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows the preferred embodiment of the throwable light source ofthis invention; and

FIG. 2 is a left elevation view of the throwable light of FIG. 1positioned adjacent to an associated induction power transmitter; and

FIG. 3 is a sectional view along line 3-3 of FIG. 2; and

FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of a throwable light source accordingto the primary embodiment the present invention; and

FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of a throwable light source accordingto an embodiment the present invention that provides haptic feedback toits user; and

FIG. 6 illustrates a user of the throwable light source of the presentinvention receiving haptic feedback through an associated wristband; and

FIG. 7 shows views of environments in which networked throwable lightsources and associated network devices are deployed; and

FIG. 8 shows an assembled view and interior views of two example lightsources of this invention, one with multiple LEDs distributed around thehousing surface and one with fused fiber optic bundles capable ofdistributing and emitting light from an embedded light source; and

FIG. 9 shows views of environments in which throwable light sources ofvarying shapes and with varying respective centers of mass respond uponarriving at rest on landing surfaces; and

FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment of a throwable light source with anoblate spheroid shaped housing containing a light source positioned at apredetermined orientation relative to the polar axis; and

FIG. 11 is a view of the underside of the throwable light of FIG. 10revealing a second light source positioned at a predeterminedorientation relative to the polar axis; and

FIG. 12 is a left elevation view of the throwable light of FIG. 10; and

FIG. 13 is a sectional view along line 13-13 of FIG. 12; and

FIG. 14 illustrates an impact of aerodynamic forces on spherical andoblate spheroid shaped housings; and

FIG. 15 shows views of an embodiment of a throwable light source withimprovements including weighting means for generating angular momentumand means for aligning the user's finger with a predetermined axis ofrotation; and

FIG. 16 shows a view of an embodiment of a self-righting sphericalthrowable light with a mercury switch to activate and deactivateillumination; and

FIG. 17 shows a right elevation view and an upside-down right elevationview of an embodiment of a self-righting, oblate-spheroid shapedthrowable light with a mercury switch to select regions forillumination; and

FIG. 18 shows a schematic diagram of a throwable light source systemwith a throwable light battery charged by induction and a view of thesystem in operation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Before explaining the present invention in detail, it is to beunderstood that the invention is not limited in its application to thedetails of construction and arrangement of parts illustrated in theaccompanying drawings, since the invention is capable of otherembodiments and of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also,it is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employedherein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation.

The invention is a high-intensity light source that is thrown orprojected into an airborne trajectory and is capable of illuminatingenvironments of interest. Another aspect of this invention describes ahigh-intensity light source that is thrown or projected into an airbornetrajectory and is capable of spotlighting a particular region or subjectof interest while in flight or at its arrival location.

The preferred embodiment of the apparatus of this invention isillustrated at FIG. 1, also shown in a left side elevation at FIG. 2 andsectional view at FIG. 3.

As shown in the preferred embodiment of FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, housing 100is a hermetically sealed hollow sphere, molded of a light-transmittingmaterial, such as clear Lexan. The housing encases circuit board 101 andelectronic components further described herein to generatehigh-intensity illumination. Electronic components embedded within thehousing of the preferred embodiment include logic unit 102, power source103 and two high-intensity LEDs 104 and 105. The hermetic seal ofhousing 100 ensures that electronic components are insulated fromunwarranted tampering and from contamination by exposure to water, soil,gases and corrosive elements in the exterior environment.

While the preferred embodiment produces light comprises high-intensityLEDs with circuit board 101 having a secondary use as a heat sink, it isanticipated that the preferred embodiment as well as all embodimentsdescribed herein may employ one or more lasers, incandescent bulbs,fluorescent bulbs, halogen bulbs or any other light-producing technologycapable of being powered within a thrown or projected apparatus andfurther capable of sustaining impact. It is further anticipated that acombination of light-producing technologies may be employed.

Electronics as described herein of the preferred embodiment allow for ahermetic seal, being fully operable and controllable by a human userwithout direct tactile contact to mechanical switches, electricalcontacts or power-charging ports on the exterior surface of theapparatus. All necessary functions are contained beneath the surface ofthe light source including the user interface (external means forcontrolling operation of the apparatus), renewable power source, powersource charging system and light-generating electronics such as LEDs.

As shown in FIG. 3, Housing 100 of the preferred embodiment is a singlepart forming a hollow shell. As an alternative to the single parthousing forming a hollow shell, it is anticipated that the single parthousing may be molded as a solid body using a material molded tocompletely encase embedded electronics.

In another possible, embodiment, it is anticipated that the single parthousing may be a hollow shell as shown in the cross-section of housing100 of FIG. 3, with the hollow shell containing an inner core of asecond material, such as a clear elastomer, with this inner core itselfmolded to completely encase embedded electronics. A construction with anouter shell manufactured of a polymer having a Shore D durometer greaterthan 50 with an inner core of elastomer with a Shore A durometer lessthan 90 would cushion embedded electronics while allowing them to expandand contract, while the outer core dampened the housing from bouncing atthe end of a trajectory.

Another embodiment of the housing comprises an elastomer overmold as theexterior layer of the shell that contains embedded electroniccomponents. A light-transmitting elastomer overmold provides a non-slipsurface and improves performance in sustaining high G impacts, whileallowing embedded LEDs to illuminate the exterior environment.

While the preferred embodiment comprises two LEDs to generate light, atleast one point source of light such as a single LED (or otherlight-producing technology such as laser) may be centrally locatedwithin a throwable light, so as to provide full spherical illuminationof the exterior environment. Additional sources of light, multiple LEDsor a combination of light-generating technologies (LED, laser, et al.),are anticipated. The application of lenses; fiber optic cables; prisms;mirrors; mirror galvanometers; diffusers; conical, concave and convexmirrored surfaces; and other optics are anticipated to project, reflect,refract and diffuse light in any or all directions outwardly from theapparatus.

Embedded within housing 100 is rechargeable battery 103, the powersource of the preferred embodiment. Induction receiver coil 106 isembedded beneath the surface of housing 100, enabling battery 103 to berecharged through induction power circuit 109 by placing inductionreceiver coil 106 in close proximity to remote (e.g. external,associated) induction power transmitter coil 107 shown in FIG. 2. Theintegration of induction receiver coil 106 and induction power circuit109 within the housing, beneath its exterior surface, eliminates theneed for direct user access to battery 103 for replacement and alsoeliminates the need for integration of a hardwired battery charging porton the surface of housing 100. Such a battery access door or chargingport, if comprised by housing 100, would present possible points ofexposure to embedded electronics by water and other corrosive elements,and would also present points of access to electronics for undesiredtampering.

The preferred embodiment as described employs an induction system tocharge an embedded battery for the purpose of powering the throwablelight source of this invention. It is anticipated that the embeddedbattery may also provide power to sensors including cameras operablyconnected to the battery and co-existing within the housing of thethrowable light source.

In the preferred embodiment, LEDs 104 and 105 of the preferredembodiment are activated and deactivated in a binary (on/off) statethrough digital operations of logic unit 102. In this respect, logicunit 102 functions as a binary switch controlling electrical flowbetween battery 103 and LEDs 104 and 105 based on a signal from a sensorfurther described herein. In another embodiment, it is anticipated thatlogic unit 102 may vary intensity or wavelength of a light source.

LEDs 104 and 105 of the preferred embodiment generate high-intensityvisible white light. Another embodiment of the apparatus of thisinvention uses LEDs generating light in the infrared spectrum, toilluminate an environment for visibility by users of near or farinfrared sensors, imagers and displays. Another embodiment of theapparatus of this invention comprises at least one infrared light sourceand at least one light source operating in the visible spectrum,providing the user with a switchable option to select either visible orinfrared illumination.

An embodiment of the throwable light source of this invention comprisesinfrared and white light LEDs; and responds to a wireless signal from anexternal wireless remote control device; and, upon receipt of saidsignal, switches between visible and infrared illumination.

While the preferred embodiment employs two LEDs, one in each hemisphereof the housing, an embodiment employing multiple LEDs is anticipated inorder to increase the lumen output.

A primary objective of the preferred embodiment of this invention isthat the apparatus be tamper-proof upon and during activation. Toprevent tampering, the logic unit of the preferred embodiment,responsible for switching on and off the LED light source, is entirelycontained within the hermetically sealed housing, insulated from directphysical contact.

Another objective of the present invention is to illuminate adestination location without providing a visible indicator of thelocation of the apparatus of this invention while it is in the course ofits trajectory. Such an objective ensures that the apparatus can bethrown without revealing the location of the user throwing theapparatus.

In the preferred embodiment of the throwable light source of thisinvention, to achieve the objective of protecting the user's locationfrom being revealed, logic unit 102 enables power to flow to LEDs onlyafter the apparatus has been thrown or projected into an airbornetrajectory. To achieve this objective, inertial measurement unit (IMU)108 is operably connected to logic 102, allowing logic unit 102 todetermine if the apparatus has been pitched or projected into anairborne trajectory. While the inertial measurement unit of thepreferred embodiment comprises a 3-axis accelerometer, 3-axis gyroscopeand 3-axis magnetometer, it is anticipated that alternate types ofsensors such as an image sensor can signal logic unit 102 that theapparatus has been thrown or projected.

With timer 110 operably connected to logic unit 102, logic unit 102 candelay the activation or deactivation of illumination at a predeterminedtime, or can monitor elapsed time as later described in thisspecification.

The preferred embodiment enters a low-power “Power-on ready” state if itis moved, as sensed by gross motion sensor 111. Gross motion sensor 111may require a minimal trickle charge from battery 103 to monitormovement or it may be a zero-energy switch such as a mercury switch tomonitor the movement of the apparatus.

Logic unit 102 may be processor or microcontroller operably connected,without limitation, to its own volatile or non-volatile memory, clock ortimers. It is anticipated that, for example in the integration ofaccelerometer data, logic unit 102 will read and store data in itsvolatile memory. It is anticipated that, for example in the loading andsaving of current settings, logic unit 102 will read and store data innon-volatile memory for recall between powered and unpowered states.Volatile memory may be comprised of RAM or any other volatile storagemeans known in the art. Non-volatile memory may be comprised of anycombination of ROM, flash memory, F-RAM or magnetic media or othernon-volatile storage means known in the art.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example flow diagram of a method for activatingLEDs so as not to reveal the location of the user or arc of the airbornetrajectory, in accordance with example embodiments. The method may beimplemented by a single apparatus such as, for example, a logic unit,sensors, timer and LED embedded within the throwable light source ofthis invention. The order of the blocks shown in FIG. 4 is an example.The blocks may be arranged in other orders, each function described ineach block may be performed one or more times, some blocks may beomitted, and/or additional blocks may be added. The method may begin atblock 400.

In block 400, the method may determine if the apparatus is being moved.Such a determination may be made by reading a gross inertial measurementcircuit; or a mechanically-activated impact switch; or other low-powermovement-sensing circuit. It is anticipated that the sensing andswitching logic of a gross movement circuit requires no power or lowpower, with block 400 representing a determination that is made withoutrapidly draining the power source of the apparatus.

In block 401, the method may include powering up and initializing alogic unit, sensors and a “power on” timer that enables the logic unitto determine how long it has been powered up. In block 402, the methodmay include the resetting of a “trajectory timer” to a value thatindicates the apparatus is not in an airborne trajectory. In block 403,the method may include a determination of whether the apparatus has beenthrown or projected into an airborne trajectory. Such a determinationmay be made, for example, using successive readings of a triple-axisaccelerometer. In block 406, the method may include starting thetrajectory timer, providing a means to approximate the amount of timethat the apparatus is in its airborne trajectory. In block 407, themethod may include reading a signal from the trajectory timer todetermine if the time since the time that the apparatus entered anairborne trajectory exceeds a predetermined maximum. Such a calculationallows, for example, the apparatus to enter a power-off state if theuser first attempts to pitch the apparatus, triggering a YESdetermination at block 403, but balks on the pitch before actuallyreleasing the apparatus into an airborne trajectory.

In block 408, the method may include determining if the apparatus hasimpacted with a landing surface at the end of its trajectory. Such adetermination may be made, for example, using an impact sensor thatsignals a rapid deceleration. In block 409, the method may includeactivation of high-intensity LEDs to illuminate the environment.Condition for arriving at block 409 requires the positive determinationthat the apparatus has accelerated into an airborne trajectory asdetected in block 403; the determination that the apparatus has not beenin a trajectory for an extended period of time as detected in block 407;and upon the impact of the apparatus at the end of its trajectory asdetected in block 408.

In block 404, the method may include the determination that the devicehas been powered up for an extended period of time. Such adetermination, if made at block 404, would indicate that the ball wasmoved (determined in block 400) but not thrown (determined in block 403)and therefore may be capable of being powered down. In block 405, themethod may include powering down the apparatus. Power down at block 405does not prevent the gross inertial measurement sensing circuitry ormotion sensor of block 400 from continuing to function,

FIG. 4 illustrates one example logical approach for distinguishing asuccessful trajectory from a poorly thrown pitch, dropped apparatus,misfire from a pitching machine or other inadvertent operation. Such anapproach protects the user from accidentally illuminating the lightsource before it arrives at its destination.

It is anticipated that a signal from a timer, such as timer 110 of FIGS.1, 2 and 3, may result in the activation or deactivation of illuminationby the throwable light source at a predetermined absolute time such as12:00 PM GST. It is anticipated that a signal from a timer, such astimer 110 of FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, may result in the activation ordeactivation of illumination by the throwable light source at apredetermined time relative to a particular event. For example, upondetermining that a high-G impact has occurred, logic unit 102 of FIG. 1may monitor a signal from timer 110 in order to delay activation of LEDs104 and 105 by 20 seconds.

It should be noted that the component identified herein as a “logicunit,” among other possible tasks, controls the activation state of thelight source. In this respect, the logic unit may be one of a switch,processor, microcontroller, relay or any component capable ofcontrolling flow of electricity between battery and light source. It isanticipated that the circuitry operating the logic unit may be isolated,optically, mechanically or otherwise, from the circuit powering thelight source.

Unintended Balk, Drop and Misfire Detection

While the preferred embodiment, as taught by FIG. 4, is capable ofconfirming a successful pitch before activating onboard LEDs, furtherimprovements to prevent accidental activation are anticipated.

An inertial measurement unit, acceleration sensor, image sensor or othermeans for detecting movement of the throwable light source can providesignal data to the logic unit for distinguishing between a short-rangetrajectory, long-range trajectory, accidental drop from the user's hand,misfire from a pitching machine or poorly thrown pitch. Such adetermination can prevent accidental activation of the light source insituations, for example, where illumination of the throwable light couldreveal the location of its user.

A number of approaches exist to determine if a trajectory is successfulusing sensors and timers to determine whether the throwable light hasbeen pitched as anticipated; whether the trajectory is viable for theintended application; and whether the light has impacted as anticipated.

A throwable light entering what is considered a successful trajectory(hereafter referred to a “successful pitch”) is characterized by a rapidincrease in acceleration, detectable by a sensor such as anaccelerometer. Alternatively, a successful pitch may be detected bydetermining if acceleration is positive and velocity exceeds apredetermined threshold, also detectable by a sensor such as anaccelerometer. Activation contingent on the detection of a successfulpitch alone will not prevent an unintended activation if the throwablelight is accidentally pitched directly at the ground.

A throwable light exiting a successful trajectory hereafter referred toas a “successful impact”) is characterized by a rapid decrease inacceleration, detectable by a sensor such as an accelerometer or thetype commonly used for deploying airbags. Activation upon the detectionof a successful impact alone will not reliably ensure activation if thethrowable light decelerates during its flight (passing through treebranches, for example) or is cushioned upon landing. Furthermore,activation contingent on the detection of a successful impact alone willnot prevent an unintended activation if the throwable light isaccidentally pitched directly at the ground.

A throwable light source thrown into a useful trajectory ischaracterized by experiencing a continued period of deceleration for apredetermined time as the light source approaches its apogee. The timeduring which a throwable light is in ascent is measureable. Such aperiod of ascent is followed by a moment of zero velocity (at apogee)and then an increase in velocity (passing the apogee). The successfultrajectory can be defined by one in which the period of ascent exceeds apredetermined window of time. Such a definition of a useful trajectory(hereafter referred to as a “successful trajectory”) can be used todistinguish a useful trajectory from a balked pitch, a drop onto theground or a misfire into a wall at close proximity to a pitchingmachine. Such a definition of a successful trajectory is also useful inthat it can be determined before the light source reaches its apogee,thereby allowing any number of events to occur after the apogee whilestill continuing with an activation sequence.

Given the above described means for detecting a successful pitch,successful impact and successful trajectory, the following operationscan improve performance of a throwable light by preventing accidentalactivation of the light source:

In one embodiment, an activation sequence is initiated if a successfulpitch as defined above is followed, within a predetermined time (apredetermined maximum time expected to be in flight), by a successfulimpact as defined above. This embodiment is exampled in the schematic ofFIG. 4.

In one embodiment, an activation sequence is initiated if a successfulpitch as defined above is followed by a predetermined time (apredetermined minimum time expected to be in flight), and thereuponfollowed by a successful impact as defined above being detected within apredetermined time (a predetermined maximum time that an impact shouldhave been expected to occur).

In one embodiment, an activation sequence is initiated if a manualsignal initiated by the user (such as the wrist-shake of a shake sensor)is followed, within a predetermined time (a predetermined maximum timeto allow for a pitch and a trajectory), by a successful impact asdefined above.

In one embodiment, an activation sequence is initiated if a manualsignal initiated by the user (such as the wrist-shake of a shake sensor)is followed by a predetermined time (a predetermined minimum timeexpected to be in flight), and thereupon followed by a successful impactas defined above being detected within a predetermined time (apredetermined maximum time that an impact should have been expected tooccur).

In another embodiment, an activation sequence is initiated if a changein inertia exceeds a predetermined threshold. Such a measurement wouldprevent, for example, activation of a light source after an accidentaldrop of a throwable light from a user's hand to the ground characterizedby a relatively low-G impact. For tactical applications in whichrelatively high G pitches are anticipated, a sensor such as an airbagsensor may be useful in making such a determination.

In another embodiment, an activation sequence is initiated if thethrowable light source determines that it has experienced a successfultrajectory as described above, one in which the throwable light has beenin an ascent phase of its trajectory for a predetermined time.

In another embodiment, an activation sequence is initiated if a rapidacceleration (e.g. pitch) is detected followed by the detection of aperiod of ascent (continued relatively slow deceleration) for apredetermined time. Such a determination enables a successful trajectoryto be defined prior to the light source reaching an apogee.

In another embodiment, an activation sequence is initiated if a manualsignal initiated by the user (such as the wrist-shake of a shake sensor)is detected and followed by the detection of a successful trajectory asdescribed earlier, one in which the throwable light has been in anascent phase of its trajectory for a predetermined time.

In another embodiment, an activation sequence is initiated if thethrowable light source has reached a predetermined altitude. This typeof measurement can prevent unintended activation due to any event belowa predetermined altitude. Such a determination may be made with the useof an altitude sensor. Calibrated is anticipated to normalize absolutealtitude above sea level to the ground level of the user or pitchingmachine.

Embodiments described herein that are intended to reduce the probabilityof an unintended activation may be combined to further reduce thisprobability. For example, a determination that a throwable light isdecelerating toward an apogee can be required along with a determinationthat the throwable light has reached a predetermined altitude before anactivation sequence is initiated. Such a determination would be valuablein situations where accidental or premature activation could endangerthe user.

Shake Sensor

In another embodiment of the throwable light source of this invention,the apparatus comprises a shake sensor capable of detecting a change ininertia induced by a shake of the user's wrist while being grasped. Itis anticipated that an accelerometer and processor, as exampled by IMU108 and logic unit 102 of FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, are capable of operating asa shake sensor.

In operation of such an embodiment, based on an input signal from IMU108, logic unit 102 discerns a user-generated shaking motion from othernormally anticipated changes in inertia (i.e. bounce, throw, pitchingmachine acceleration, impact at the end of an airborne trajectory,etc.). Upon a determination that the apparatus has been shaken by theuser's wrist, logic unit 102 functions as a switch to control the powerstate of LEDs 104 and 105. In this regard, the combined function of IMU108 and logic unit 102 functions together as a shake sensor switch.

The advantage of a shake sensing switch in a throwable light source asdescribed allows the apparatus to be activated, deactivated andotherwise controlled while being handheld, in a single hand, while beinghermetically sealed from corrosion and tampering.

Another advantage of a shake sensing switch in combination with athrowable light source is that it provides a means for the light sourceto be activated and deactivated by a user wearing thick gloves orotherwise limited to applications of gross force on the apparatus butnot precise tactile input.

Another advantage of a shake sensing switch in combination with athrowable light source is that it provides a means for the light sourceto be activated and deactivated in the dark, discretely, without needfor visibly seeing a switch or display.

A 3-axis accelerometer is ideally suited as a shake sensor for athrowable light source. The human hand and wrist are capable of exertinga unique lateral shaking movement to a handheld object, a motiondetectable by a 3-axis accelerometer and discernable by a processor as asignal not ordinarily expressed on a thrown or projected object whenairborne, bouncing, rolling, floating or otherwise deployed.

A 3-axis gyroscope is also ideally suited as a shake sensor for athrowable light source. The human and wrist are well-suited to exertingan oscillating shaking motion about a central axis of a handheld object(with a center of rotation on axis with the user's forearm). Anoscillation along one axis is another motion that is not ordinarilyexpressed on a thrown or projected object when airborne, bouncing,rolling, floating or otherwise deployed. A sequence of one or morepauses, with oscillations of one or more periods, allows for the user togenerate a plurality of commands, including but not limited toactivation, sleep, activate after delay, deactivate and status request.

It is anticipated that shake sensor switch may require a signal from atimer, such as a signal from timer 110 to logic unit 102, to discern awrist-induced shake from a false positive inertial change such as abounce, roll or throw, as might also be measureable and signaled tologic unit 102 by IMU 108.

A timer provides the means to measure time intervals (e.g. pauses)between user-initiated wrist shakes, enabling the user to issue a rangeof commands by timing wrist shakes of the apparatus as earlierdescribed.

In one embodiment, the user operates the apparatus by shaking it tostart an LED activation sequence, and shakes the apparatus a secondtime, within a predetermined time period, to deactivate the LEDactivation sequence. The LED activation sequence may result in poweringthe LEDs to immediately illuminate the environment before the user hasthrown the apparatus. The LED activation sequence may use a timercircuit, resulting in the LEDs illuminating the environment after apredetermined time period such as 30 seconds, allowing the user to throwthe apparatus and the apparatus to travel through its trajectory beforethe LEDs illuminate the environment.

In operation of this embodiment, the activation sequence may beinitiated if logic unit 102 determines that the user has shaken theapparatus, but had not shaken the apparatus within the 5-second timeinterval prior to the current wrist-shake event. While complexactivation sequences are further described herein, the activationsequence of one embodiment is one in which logic unit 102, based on asignal from timer 110, waits a predetermined delay interval andsubsequently allows power to flow to LEDs 104 and 105, producing lightto illuminate the environment. The delay allows the user to throw theball into an airborne trajectory without the LEDs being visible untilafter impact at the end of the trajectory. In this embodiment of theapparatus, if a shake of the user's wrist is detected by logic unit 102within a 5-second interval after the last detected shake, a deactivationsequence is initiated. The deactivation sequence of this embodiment isone in which logic unit 102 prevents power from flowing to LEDs 104 and105.

With the combination of a timer and an inertial measurement sensor, theLEDs can be enabled at a predetermined time following the accelerationof the apparatus into its trajectory. For example, a triple-axisaccelerometer can be monitored by the processor to determine if theapparatus is pitched into an airborne trajectory, upon which theprocessor can delay 30 seconds before illuminating the LEDs. Such anevent flow would prevent the trajectory from being visible.

Haptic Feedback

Haptic feedback allows the user to receive tactile confirmation that anactivation sequence or deactivation sequence has been initiated. Suchfeedback is invaluable in a throwable light source because it providesthe user with necessary status information without revealing location(as a status LED or display would). Such feedback is also advantageousbecause the apparatus is expected to be handheld in a position that isnot likely to be in front of the user's eyes.

A vibrating motor embedded within the housing of the apparatus is apreferred means of providing haptic feedback. An advantage of avibrating motor for feedback in a throwable light source is that it canbe sensed by the user of the apparatus through a thick glove. Anotheradvantage of a vibrating motor is that it can be activated in the dark,discretely (unlike LEDs or other feedback means that reveal the user'slocation).

FIG. 5 illustrates an example flow diagram of a method foruser-activation of LEDs, with haptic feedback to confirm activation. Theadvantage of haptic feedback in this workflow is that the operation ofthe throwable light source does not reveal the location of the user orarc of the airborne trajectory, in accordance with example embodiments.The method may be implemented by a single apparatus such as, forexample, a logic unit, sensors, timer and LED embedded within thethrowable light source of this invention. The order of the blocks shownin FIG. 5 is an example. The blocks may be arranged in other orders,each function described in each block may be performed one or moretimes, some blocks may be omitted, and/or additional blocks may beadded.

The flow of FIG. 5 demonstrates an example where the user of thethrowable light shakes the apparatus to activate it, and shakes theapparatus a second time to deactivate it. The method may begin at block500.

In block 500, the method may determine if the apparatus is being moved.Such a determination may be made by reading a gross movement sensor; ora mechanically-activated movement sensing switch such as a mercuryswitch; or other low-power movement-sensing circuit. It is anticipatedthat the sensing and switching logic of a gross movement circuitrequires no power or low power, with block 500 representing adetermination made without rapidly draining the power source of theapparatus.

In block 501, the method may include powering up and initializing alogic unit, sensors and timers. In block 502, the method may include theresetting of a “power on” timer. In block 503, the method may include adetermination of whether the apparatus has been shaken by the user'swrist. Such a determination may be made, for example, using successivereadings of a triple-axis accelerometer. In block 510, haptic feedbackis provided to the user to indicate that the wrist shake sensed in block503 was detected and further acknowledging to the user that anactivation sequence has been initiated. Such haptic feedback may beachieved using a vibration motor, vibrating the apparatus in the user'shand for a brief interval. In block 506, the method may includeresetting an activation delay timer; the activation delay timerproviding a means to delay illumination of LEDs by a predetermined timeto allow time for a user-initiated deactivation or other intentionaldelay window.

In block 507, the method may include a determination of whether theapparatus has been shaken by the user's wrist. Such a determination ismade subsequent to the first determination of a wrist shake of block503. A determination of a wrist-shake in block 507 may be made, forexample, using successive readings of a triple-axis accelerometer. Inblock 511, haptic feedback is provided to the user to acknowledge thatthe wrist shake sensed in block 507 was detected, and further indicatingto the user that a deactivation sequence has been initiated. Such hapticfeedback may be achieved using a vibration motor, vibrating theapparatus in the user's hand for a short interval.

To differentiate the haptic feedback of block 511 from the hapticfeedback of 510, the types of feedback may be differentiated. Forexample, the haptic feedback of block 511 may be produced by pulsing avibrating motor twice, for two successive brief intervals with a pausein between vibrations. The haptic feedback of block 510 may be producedby pulsing the vibrating motor once, for a brief interval. The durationand frequency of vibrations, and one or more pauses between vibrations,as sensed by the user's hand, can indicate to the user that an LEDactivation sequence is initiated (as would be true if arriving in block510); or that a circuit deactivation sequence is initiated (as would betrue if arriving in block 511); or signaling hardware status to the usere. battery life, operating system number); or signaling the status of aprocess (i.e. entering sleep mode, wake up from sleep mode, etc.).

In block 508, the method may include determining if the apparatus hasbeen activated for a predetermined period of time before LEDs areactually powered up. Such a delay is called “activation delay” and theresetting of the delay may occur in block 506.

In block 509, the method may include activation of high-intensity LEDs.Condition for arriving at block 509 requires the positive determinationthat the apparatus has been shaken by the user but not shaken a secondtime; and the positive determination that a predetermined amount oftime, namely the predetermined activation delay, has expired.

In block 504, the method may include the determination that the devicehas been powered up for an extended period of time. Such adetermination, if made at block 504, would indicate that the ball waseither moved (determined in block 500) but not shaken (determined inblock 503); or shaken (determined in block 503) and shaken again todeactivate (determined in block 507); in either case capable of beingpowered down. In block 505, the method may include powering down theapparatus. Power down at block 505 does not prevent the gross movementsensor monitored in block 500 from continuing to function.

In another embodiment, as an alternative to a feedback-generating devicewithin the throwable light source housing, haptic feedback may beprovided by an external accessory device, such as a wristband comprisinga receiver and vibrating motor. Such a haptic feedback accessory can beactivated wirelessly through a transmitter on the throwable lightsource. In this configuration, the user initiates a command byinteracting with the throwable light source (i.e. shaking the apparatus)and, in response to the user command, the throwable light sourcetransmits a command to the external accessory (i.e., wristband receiverand vibrating motor) which itself provides haptic feedback to the useras a response to the command (i.e. acknowledgement, failure, lowbattery, etc.).

An example configuration of a throwable light source with an externalhaptic feedback accessory is shown in FIG. 6. Throwable light source 600is held by user 602. Wireless transmitter 601 is embedded within thehousing of throwable light source 600 and operably connected to LEDactivation circuitry within throwable light source 600, said lightactivation circuitry exampled in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 and other embodimentsdescribed herein Wireless receiver 605 is embedded within wristband 606.Transmitter 601 communicates with receiver 605 as shown by transmissionicon 603. Haptic feedback device 604 is hardwired to receiver 605 andcomprises a vibration generating motor. In operation, throwable lightsource 600 causes wristband 606 to vibrate in order to provide anacknowledgement to user 602 of receipt of a command (i.e. activate LEDs,deactivate LEDs, etc.), or to provide data to user 602 regarding thestatus of throwable light source 600 (low battery, etc.). An exampleflow of user interaction with the throwable light source along with twoopportunities for haptic feedback through wristband 606 is provided inthe block diagram of FIG. 5.

It is anticipated that the external haptic feedback device, exampled inFIG. 6 as a wristband, may be embedded in a portable or wearableaccessory including but not iced to jewelry such as a finger ring ornecklace, gloves,socks, pant lining, hat lining, keyring, etc.

It is anticipated that the haptic feedback mechanism, exampled at 604 inFIG. 6 as a circuit including a vibrating motor, may employ alternativetactile means for indicating feedback to user 602. Such means includeswithout limitation a wearable solenoid capable of providing a push/pullmotion on the user's body; application of a safe yet perceptibleelectrical shock (e.g. characterized by tingling, muscle contracting,etc.) to an arm or a portion of the user's body; or any other hapticfeedback means commonly used to provide feedback.

It is anticipated that a feedback mechanism, exampled as haptic feedbackmechanism 604 comprising a vibrating motor, may employ non-tactilefeedback means as an alternative to haptic feedback. Such means includeswithout limitation an earpiece capable of providing an audio cue; adiscrete visible cue such as an LED embedded within eyewear or on apersonal digital display; or any other feedback means commonly used toprovide feedback.

Networked Throwable Light Source

In an embodiment of this invention, the logic unit is operably connectedto a receiver embedded within the housing of the apparatus; the receivercapable of receiving a control signal from a remote device external tothe thrown apparatus and, upon receiving the signal, the logic unitinitiating a logical operation including but not limited to activatingor deactivating the LEDs. Such a receiver may be a WIFI, radio wavefrequency receiver, light sensor for detecting remote infrared orvisible signal or other receiver capable of receiving a signal from atransmitter external to the thrown apparatus. Such a receiver may be atransceiver or RFID interrogator in the throwable light source, allowingfor the activation or deactivation of the light source upon receipt ofpredetermined coded information in an associated RFID tag worn by theuser.

FIG. 7 presents various use case scenarios for one or more throwablelight sources in a networked system.

A user may toss one or more unlit light sources into a trajectory, thenwirelessly transmit a command to each respective tossed light source inorder to activate the respective lights. Such an embodiment isillustrated in operation at 700 in FIG. 7. User 701 has thrown (unlit)light source 702 and (unlit) light source 703 in close proximity tosubject 705. User 701 operates wireless transmitter 704 which, inresponse to the user interaction, sends an activation command to areceiver in light source 702 as indicated by transmission icon 706. Insynchronicity with the transmission of an activation command by wirelesstransmitter 704 to light source 702, wireless transmitter 704 sends anactivation command to a receiver in light source 703 as indicated bytransmission icon 707. The user-initiated wireless transmission fromtransmitter 704 to receivers in light sources 702 and 703 results in theactivation of LEDs in the respective light sources, illuminating subject705. While this example illustrates an embodiment whereby each throwablelight source 702 and 703 receives a unique transmission signal asindicated by transmission icons 706 and 707, it is anticipated that aplurality of throwable light sources may respond to the same wirelesstransmission signal transmitted from a remote device.

In an embodiment of this invention, a throwable light source comprises atransmitter embedded within its housing that enables the light source toissue an activation command to a receiver embedded in a second throwablelight source. With this configuration, throwable light sources arecapable of acting as repeaters by receiving and repeating signalsinitiated by a remote user, as well as returning status and sensor databack to the user through a daisy chain of wireless devices.

In one example embodiment illustrated at 710 in FIG. 7, a user tossesmultiple light sources into a trajectory, and then wirelessly transmit acommand to one light source in order to activate LEDs in each of lightsources. As shown, user 711 has thrown light sources 712, 713 and 714 inclose proximity to subject 715. User 711 operates wireless transmitter714 which, in response to the user interaction, sends an activationcommand to a receiver in light source 712 as indicated by transmissionicon 716. Upon receipt of the transmission of an activation command,light source 712 employs its own onboard transmitter to repeat theactivation command to light source 713 as indicated by transmission icon717. Upon receipt of the transmission of an activation command, lightsource 713 employs its own onboard transmitter to repeat the activationcommand to light source 714 as indicated by transmission icon 718. Theuser-initiated wireless transmission from transmitter 714 to a receiverin light source 712 results in the activation of LEDs in light sources712, 713 and 714, illuminating subject 715 from three directions. Such aconfiguration is a wireless daisy chain of light sources, with lights inthe chain capable of acting as repeaters to communicate with other lightsources.

A plurality of throwable light sources in a single networked systemserves to increase the intensity of illumination of an environment witha synchronized cluster of thrown or projected lights; and broadens thecoverage of illumination across an environment by a cluster of lights;and provides for selective illumination of portions of an environmentwith independent activation and operation of each respective lightsource in the network.

Networked light sources are capable of operating collaboratively towardscompletion of a variety of shared tasks possible with the utility of oneor more lights thrown or projected into an airborne trajectory.Communications may be synchronous or asynchronous.

An embodiment of the throwable light source of this invention may beused in conjunction with a throwable camera to provide illumination forphotography or videography. A throwable stroboscopic light source wouldbe advantageous to a throwable camera by reducing or eliminating motionblur associated with the light gathering capabilities of inexpensiveimage sensors. Multiple thrown light sources further advantage athrowable camera by illuminating a large area. Furthermore, a throwablecamera can remain passive while separate, thrown light sources arevisible, to prevent detection of the camera.

An example operation of the throwable light source of this invention,used in conjunction with a throwable camera, is shown at 720 in FIG. 6.User 721 tosses throwable camera 722 into a dark environment with theintention of capturing photos and videos of subject 725. User 721 alsotosses throwable light source 723 with the intention to illuminatesubject 725.

To capture a photograph, user 721 uses wireless transmitter 724 totransmit a capture command to a receiver in throwable camera 722 asshown by transmission icon 726. In response to receipt of the capturecommand by the receiver of throwable camera 722, throwable camera 722activates a wireless transmitter within its housing to transmit a“flash” command to a receiver in light source 723 as shown bybidirectional transmission icon 727, instructing the light source toflash a stroboscopic light in synch with the camera. In response toreceipt of a “flash” command, light source 723 activates a transmitterwithin its housing to return an acknowledgement signal wirelessly backto a camera 722 as shown by bidirectional transmission icon 727. Theoperation results in camera 722 taking a picture of subject 725, withsubject 725 illuminated by a stroboscopic flash of light arriving fromlight source 723, the flash synchronized with the imaging capture logicof camera 722. It is anticipated that camera 722 may issue “flash”commands to one or more throwable light sources on the network tosynchronize respective stroboscopic flashes (or activation of continuousillumination) with an image capture operation without first receiving acapture command from user 721.

With a transmitter embedded in the housing of the throwable light sourceof this invention, the apparatus is capable of communicating itsactivation status, the status of onboard sensors, the status of externalevents, and commands intended to activate external devices.

With a receiver embedded within the housing of the throwable lightsource of this invention, an onboard processing unit can gain access tostatus updates from one or more additional light sources as well asoperational commands arriving from a remote user or from another lightsource. Such communications would allow, for example, a remote user toactivate the light source, to monitor the status of the light source.

The throwable light source network of this invention is understood to bea plurality of devices at least one of which is a throwable lightsource, each device capable of communicating with at least one otherdevice in the system via wireless connection. Any desired wireless orwired transmission system and method may be used without departing fromthis invention, including the use of any desired wired or wireless datatransmission format or protocol.

It is anticipated that the throwable light source of this invention mayproduce light visible to the naked eye, as well as light in near and farinfrared, ultraviolet or any other spectral range matching that of animager capable of sensing the environment being illuminated.

It is anticipated that the throwable light source of this invention maybe combined with onboard cameras, sensors, receivers, transmitters,power sources, data display and microprocessors and other componentsembedded within its housing and useful to the user of the throwableapparatus.

Full Spherical Light Output Using Fiber Optic Bundle

It is anticipated that embodiments of the throwable light sources ofthis invention will comprise embedded LEDs (or other light-producingtechnology) at the core of the apparatus, emitting light through atranslucent or transparent housing. It is also anticipated thatembodiments may comprise a plurality of LEDs (or other light producingtechnology) distributed around the housing of the throwable lightsource, emitting light from a plurality of points on the housingsurface. As represented in assembled view 850 in FIG. 8 and shown in adisassembled view exposing its interior at 800 in FIG. 8, an examplethrowable light source has battery-powered control unit 801 at its core;and a plurality of LEDs 802 affixed to points distributed around housing803; each of LEDs 802 having respective power cables 804 operablyconnected to control unit 801.

In another embodiment of the invention, the embedded light source, forexample a high-intensity LED, is connected (e.g. fused to or otherwisedisposed to emit light in a direction of) one or more fiber-opticstrands, each capable of carrying and projecting light outwardly from amultitude of points distributed around the housing. Such a design isadvantageous in that the fiber optic strands allow electroniclight-emitting components to be embedded at the core of the apparatus,insulated from impacts and potential tampering.

Another advantage of such a configuration is that a light sourceembedded at the core of the housing is capable of casting lightoutwardly, in any and all directions without limitation or obstruction.Another advantage of this design is that the housing can be manufacturedof an opaque material, with small-diameter holes, lenses or aperturesdistributed about the exterior surface of the housing to allow for lightemission. Such an opaque construction would allow the throwable lightsource to appear matte black or camouflaged when inactive, blending intoits surroundings.

An example of the throwable light source of this embodiment isrepresented by assembled view at 850 in FIG. 8 and shown in adisassembled view exposing its interior at 860. At the core of thesphere, high intensity light source 861 emits light through opticalcollimating lens 862. Light emitted through collimating lens 862 isfocused on proximal end 866 of fiber optic bundle 863, carried througheach fiber optic strand 865 and emitted outwardly from respective lenses864. Light passing through each lens 864 is diverged to expand coverageof illumination of the exterior environment. In this example, lenses 864are distributed around the entire exterior surface of the sphere toensure that light is emitted outwardly in all directions.

It should be noted that assembled view 850 is shared by the abovedescription of disassembled views 860 and 800 since both exampleembodiments appear identical when assembled.

The Oblate Spheroid Shaped Throwable Light Source

An oblate spheroid shaped housing advantages the throwable light sourceof this invention for particular applications.

A spherical light source with a center of mass located at the center ofits housing arrives at the end of its trajectory and rests in anunpredictable orientation. As exampled by scene 900 in FIG. 9, thrownlight source 901, having a center of mass at the center point of thesphere, rolls to a resting disposition in a random orientation relativeto landing surface 904. In this example, having landed at the shownorientation, LED 902 emits a diverging conical beam of light asindicated by light icon 903. In this particular orientation of lightsource 901 having been thrown onto landing surface 904, the resultingbeam spread of light as indicated at 903 is tilted at an angle to theplane of the landing surface 904. As shown, the environment (intended tobe fully illuminated) is only partially illuminated by light source 901.House 907 remains unlit because LED 902 has arrived at rest in a tiltedorientation with respect to plane 904 of the landscape on which itlanded.

A spherical light source having an eccentric center of mass located at afixed, off-center point within its housing will be self-righting toreliably arrive at rest on a planar landing surface in an orientationdictated by its center of mass. As exampled at 950 in FIG. 9,high-density mass 951 is molded into the bottom of spherical housing952. Mass 951 shifts the center of mass of housing 952 away from thecenter of the sphere, toward a bottom portion of the sphere intended toarrive at rest on landing surface 956. When landing on planar surface956 after being thrown airborne, housing 952 rolls to a reliablypredictable resting position with mass 951 pulled by gravitational forcein the general direction indicated by arrow 953, so the intended bottomof the housing (the portion containing mass 951) reliably faces theground on which the sphere lands. In this orientation, LED 954, affixedwithin housing 952 to emit light away from the sphere's bottom, willreliably arrive at rest in a skyward-facing orientation where it canemit a diverging spread of light represented by arrows 955 to illuminatea 360 degree panorama across landing surface 956, with minimal lightemitted downward directly at landing surface 956.

Unfortunately, a spherical housing having an eccentric center of masssuch as exampled at 950, unless thrown and spun precisely so the centerof mass leads the housing while spinning axis-forward, will precessabout the center of mass as it spins along its trajectory. Theprecessing of a throwable light source is generally undesirable. Aprecessing shape in flight is ill-suited to facilitate laminar airflowaround its surface, increasing drag and compromising trajectorydistance. Because maximizing distance is an objective of a throwablelight source, an eccentrically weighted sphere is generally undesirable.

An oblate spheroid shaped light source, even one with a polar axis onlynominally smaller than the equatorial diameter, offers an advantage overa spherical throwable light source in that it is capable of arriving atrest in one of two predictable, face-up or face-down orientations. Thisremains true even if the center of mass of the oblate spheroid shapedthrowable light is at the center of its oblate spheroid shaped housing,the optimal configuration for being thrown or projected into a longdistance trajectory. For optimal flight, the polar axis of an oblatespheroid must be its axis of revolution when spun into its trajectory(said spin providing rotational stability). When such an oblate spheroidis thrown and comes to rest on a landing surface, an LED fixed withinthe housing to emit light perpendicular to the polar axis can bereliably predicted to emit light in a cone substantially parallel to theplane of the landing surface. Similarly, when such an oblate spheroid isthrown and comes to rest on a landing surface, an LED fixed within thehousing to emit light at any angle relative to the polar axis (excludingthe perpendicular instance) can be reliably predicted to emit light in acone substantially at one of two angles relative to the landing surface,depending on whether the oblate spheroid landed with the face emittinglight being face up (e.g. skyward) or face down (e.g. groundward).

An example operation of an oblate spheroid shaped throwable light sourceis illustrated at scene 970 in FIG. 9. Oblate spheroid light sourcehousing 971 comprises LED 972 centered on and emitting light in a conecentered on polar axis 973. When the oblate spheroid shaped light sourceis thrown airborne and arrives at rest, its polar axis can be reliablypredicted to be generally aligned at a perpendicular to the landscape,as shown by polar axis 973 being substantially perpendicular to planarlandscape 975. With its polar axis generally perpendicular to planarlandscape 975, the spreading conical beam of light as represented bybeam icon 976 emitted from LED 972 is capable of illuminating a 360degree panorama across the planar landscape 975.

As demonstrated by the example oblate spheroid light source housing asshown in the scene at 970 in FIG. 9, a resting position with itsequatorial perimeter on a parallel plane with its landing surface allowsfor the outward projection of light in such a way as to provide optimalillumination of the environment. As shown in a topside view in FIG. 10,an underside view in FIG. 11, a left elevation view in FIG. 12 and asectional view in FIG. 13, LEDs 1000 and 1001 are positioned withinhousing 1004 to emit light outwardly along the axis polar axis 1003, sowhen oblate spheroid housing 1004 comes to rest it is reliablypredictable that one of the two LEDs 1001 or 1002 will projecting lightin a skyward-facing orientation the other LED will be projecting lightfacing the landing surface. The light source emitting light away fromground is not only capable of concentrating light where it is needed, itis capable of projecting light with symmetry to both the polar axis andlanding surface, and can be optically spread using a diverging lens toilluminate a 360 degree panorama of the landscape.

As an alternative to a diverging lens spreading light in a panorama withsymmetry to the landing surface, it is anticipated that multiple LEDsaligned off-axis from the polar axis can illuminate a 360 degreepanorama of the landscape. Regardless of the number of LEDs (or lasers,incandescent bulbs, etc.) a significant advantage of the oblate spheroidhousing is that it enables light to be emitted in an orientationrelative to the plane of the landing surface. Such an advantage (andothers described herein) may be expressed with one or more LEDs, or anyother light-emitting technology within the oblate spheroid.

Another advantage of the oblate spheroid is that it may beelectronically bisected at its widest perimeter, providing theopportunity for selective activation of a skyward-facing half and aground-facing half. For example, LED 1000 of FIGS. 10 and 12 may beactivated if and only if the oblate spheroid arrives at rest with LED1000 facing skyward. Similarly, LED 1001 of FIGS. 11 and 12 may beactivated if and only if the oblate spheroid arrives at rest with LED1001 facing skyward. Compartmentalizing the two halves of the oblatespheroid conserves power, preventing unnecessary illumination of lightin a downward (earth-facing) direction and concentrating light on theillumination of a 360 panorama across the landing surface.

For throwable light source applications requiring high-velocity orlong-range trajectories, an oblate spheroid housing moving through airin a vector perpendicular to its polar axis offers an improved responseto aerodynamic forces by comparison with a spherical housing. Anillustration of the typical aerodynamic responses of a sphere is shownat 1400 in FIG. 14. Spherical light source housing 1401, when thrown indirection 1406, meets opposing headwind 1403. A spherical housing, whenthrown through air, acts as a bluff body. High-speed airstream 1404moves around and along leading surface 1407, separating at 1402 fromtrailing surface 1408, inducing the formation of negative pressure wake1405, which creates drag and compromises trajectory range.

By comparison, as illustrated in scene 1410, handheld oblate spheroid1411 is seen in a top view spinning about its polar axis and moving indirection 1412 toward headwinds 1416. Air encountering leading surface1413 moves around and over the leading surface. Because of the improvedprofile of the oblate spheroid by comparison with a sphere of similarsize and mass, headwind 1416 flows in a laminar layer along the surfaceof the housing with minimal airflow separation at 1415 from the trailingsurface 1414. Because of the minimized separation of air off trailingsurface 1414, negative pressure wake 1417 has nominal impact on theproduction of drag by comparison with the behavior of examplebluff-shaped sphere 1400. A reduction in the production of drag isextremely advantageous for an embedded light source, offeringopportunities for being thrown or projected into a long-rangetrajectory.

As shown at scene 1410 in FIG. 14, an oblate spheroid shaped throwablelight source housing comprises two symmetric faces joined at theequatorial perimeter of the oblate spheroid. The shape of the surface atthe equatorial perimeter forms leading edge 1413 which, when disposed toheadwinds, moves air in a laminar flow around the two faces of thehousing containing necessary electronics. The width of the polar axis ofan oblate spheroid relative to the diameter across the equator defines anecessary space to allow for containment of electronics includingbattery and light source. In this respect, the fact that an oblatespheroid can have a polar axis of a width less than ½ the width of thewidest diameter while still being capable of providing necessaryinterior space and forming a slim profile with an aerodynamic leadingedge is a significant characteristic of an oblate spheroid shapedhousing in its use for throwable light sources.

As shown in FIG. 15, the oblate spheroid shape presents the human handwith unique advantages for a throwable light source. The handheld oblatespheroid shaped light source is easily held and spun by the hand toprovide rotational stability about the polar axis. While spun by thefingers and wrist, the handheld oblate spheroid is easily thrown on aperpendicular to the polar axis, an optimal orientation for streamlinedairflow as shown in FIG. 14, with the improved result being a lightsource easily thrown into a long-range trajectory. These physicalcharacteristics defining the handheld spinning oblate spheroid aretherefore of significant advantage to embedded light sources.

In one example shown in FIG. 15, a light source having an oblatespheroid shaped housing is shown in front elevation view 1500, rightelevation view 1510, in a user's hand at front elevation view 1520 andin a user's hand at right elevation view 1530. The light source has LEDs1503 and 1504 (not visible in right elevation view 1510). For optimalflight, the center of mass of the throwable light source 1501 iscentered and located on polar axis 1502, the polar axis being theoptimal axis of rotation when spun into its thrown trajectory. Optimalspin is produced around polar axis 1502, indicated in right elevationview 1510 by direction arrow 1514 and also indicated at view 1530 bydirection arrow 1534. Such a configuration of housing shape and massprovides the earlier described advantage in response to aerodynamicforces acting on the housing.

A handheld oblate spheroid shaped light source of a compact size andshape as exampled in FIG. 15, is comfortably held in and thrown from thepalm of a human hand, and further capable of being easily stored in apocket or purse.

A handheld oblate spheroid shaped light source housing, comfortablygrasped in the palm with a size and shape as exampled at front elevationview 1520 and right elevation view 1530 in FIG. 15, presents its userwith another significant improvement over a spherical light sourcehousing in that its shape provides the user with an intuitive,unconscious cue, when the user's hand holds up the apparatus, thateasily guides the fingers in alignment with respect to polar axis 1502so that the fingers pitching the apparatus are in an ideal orientationfor spinning and throwing in the optimal orientation for streamlinedresponse to aerodynamic forces (described earlier). By comparison, aspherical light source requiring a particular alignment of the handgrasping the housing for providing an aerodynamic advantage if thrown ina particular manner would require a surface indentation, dimple or otherform of tactile identifier for the user to align the sphere properly inpreparation for flight.

Gyroscopic Stabilization

A throwable light source may be weighted to generate gyroscopicstability when spun into a trajectory. Producing a large angularmomentum around a predetermined axis of rotation advantages a sphericalor oblate spheroid shaped throwable light source in a number of ways.

A weighted disc, wheel or other weighting means stabilizes a gyroscopeby producing a large angular momentum around the axis of rotation, withthe angular force forcing the mass of the ball away from the center ofmass, perpendicular to the axis of rotation. Such a gyroscopic force canbe incorporated into a throwable light source, with the user of thethrowable light source accelerating the gyroscopic-force producing massinto a spin when the apparatus is pitched. It is necessary for the userof the light source to be aware of the physical disposition of anembedded disc or wheel within the housing, if the mass of the disc orwheel is to act as a gyroscope when accelerated into a rapid spin duringthe pitch of the ball.

As an example, the throwable light source of FIG. 15, shown in frontelevation view 1500 and right elevation view 1510, comprises embeddedweighted wheel-shaped mass 1505 within housing 1501. The wheel and thehousing are fused, glued or otherwise bonded so that they are spuntogether. It is anticipated that this wheel will be manufactured usingmetal or other high-density material.

LED 1503 is centered on axis of rotation 1502, on a plane perpendicularto the axis of rotation, emitting light outwardly along the axis ofrotation.

As shown at 1520 and 1530, finger indentation 1512 aligns finger 1523 sowheel-shaped mass 1505 can be spun during a pitch around an intendedaxis of rotation, the polar axis of the oblate spheroid as indicated atview 1500 by arrows 1502. The purpose of the indentation is to helplocate the finger on the ball in order to provide a mechanical advantageto the finger, during a pitch, so that spin on the ball is acceleratedaround the axis of rotation, the spin direction indicated by arrow 1514and 1534. Wheel 1505 generates angular momentum about the axis ofrotation, improving rotational stability and further improvingaerodynamic performance by maintaining a stable disposition of thethrowable light's leading edge relative to headwinds. It is anticipatedthat weighting means may be one mass or a plurality of masses withweight distributed with symmetry to the desired axis of rotation.

An oblate spheroid shape with a slim profile, such as exampled in FIG.15, provides the user with a tactile indication of where the polar axisis oriented. The advantage of finger indentation 1512 increases as thespheroid approaches a spherical shape, as the user's hand no longer caneasily determine how the polar axis is aligned. The combined advantagesof finger indentation 1512 and weighting means such as mass 1505 arealso well-suited to a spherical throwable light source, aligning theuser's hand with a predetermined axis of rotation and using mass 1505 togenerate angular momentum around the predetermined axis.

While indentation 1512 is an optimal tactile indicator for the user'shand to sense the orientation of an intended axis of rotation, anotherembodiment of the throwable light of this invention may comprise asurface perturbation such as one or more dimples or pimples for theuser's hand or even a single finger to identify the orientation of theaxis.

Orientation Sensor and Light Source Activation

A throwable light source comprising an orientation sensor is capable ofselectively activating onboard LEDs (or other light-emitting technology)according to the orientation of the housing.

An example embodiment of a spherical throwable light source with a crudeorientation sensor is illustrated in FIG. 16, in right elevation view1600 and rotated right elevation view 1650. As earlier described andillustrated at 950 in FIG. 9, the center of mass of spherical housing1601 may be shifted away from the center of the sphere by embeddedhigh-density mass 1602. The purpose of mass 1602, described earlier andillustrated in FIG. 9, is to ensure that when light source 1603 isthrown into an airborne trajectory, it reliably rolls from any randomlanding orientation on landing surface 1604 to a final restingorientation with the intended bottom portion of the housing (the portioncontaining mass 904) closest to landing surface 1604, an orientationdetermined by gravitational forces acting in the direction representedby arrow 1606 with respect to landing surface 1604. Such an orientationensures in this example that light source 1603 is optimally oriented toemit light around a 360 degree panoramic scene as indicated by arrows1605.

Mercury globule 1607 within glass tube 1608 is, when operablyfunctioning as a switch to close a circuit, examples a crude orientationsensor. Gravitational force acting on mercury globule 1607 causes theglobule to seek the closes point within tube 1608 to landing surface1604. At rest (predominately subject to gravitational force), when end1609 of tube 1608 (and LED 1603) is facing skyward, mercury globule 1607is pulled toward the landing surface in the direction shown by arrow1610, thereby closing a circuit. Such a mercury switch, in a circuitwith LED 1603, can switch the activation state of the LED according toorientation of sphere 1601. In operation, such a switch could reliablyactivate LED 1603 when sphere came to rest in an orientation with thehemisphere containing LED 1603 facing skyward and the oppositehemisphere facing landing surface 1604. It is anticipated that a solidstate orientation sensor would be an optimal substitute for a mercuryswitch, and also anticipated that other orientation sensors describedherein may be used.

An embodiment of a throwable light source having an oblate-spheroidshaped housing and an orientation sensor is exampled in right elevationview 1700 and upside-down right elevation view 1750 of FIG. 17. Mercuryglobule 1702 always seeks a resting point in the glass tube of mercuryswitch 1701 closest to ground plane 1703, predominated by gravitationalforce as represented by arrow 1706. In the circuit of this example,mercury switch 1701 closes a circuit to provide power to either LED 1704or LED 1705 when mercury globule 1702 is at either end of the glasstube. When the oblate spheroid shaped throwable light source arrives atrest in the orientation shown at 1700, mercury globule 1702 closes acircuit in the portion of its glass tube closest to ground plane 1703,activating LED 1704 as indicated by arrows 1707 and deactivating LED1705. When the oblate spheroid shaped throwable light source arrives atrest in the orientation shown at 1750, mercury globule 1702 closes acircuit in the portion of its glass tube closest to ground plane 1703,activating LED 1705 as indicated by arrows 1707 and deactivating LED1704. This example embodiment illustrates the combined advantage of anoblate spheroid housing with an orientation sensor to determine whichone (or multiple) LEDs should be activated, depending on the one of twopossible orientations that the light source comes to rest at on thelanding surface.

The activation of one or more LEDs (or other sources of light) based onthe orientation of the throwable light source housing, whether airborneor at rest, allows light to be directed at a particular target. Theadvantage of such targeting is multifold, allowing for conservation ofbattery power, concentration of light where needed, spotlighting of asubject of interest (even to the accuracy of an individual laser beam).It is anticipated that the focusing of light on a particular subjectaccording to a signal from an orientation sensor may be improved withthe use of mirror galvanometers, mirrors, lenses and any number ofmechanical devices capable of redirecting light emitted from a pointsource.

Throwable Lighting System

Schematic diagram 1800 in FIG. 18 illustrates an embodiment of athrowable lighting system according to the present invention. Thelighting system comprises: a battery charger 1810; a throwable lightmodule 1820; and an optional switching arrangement 1880. The batterycharger 1810 provides power from a mains supply to the throwable lightmodule 1820.

The battery charger 1810 includes a primary coil 1815 for inductivecoupling to the light module 1820. As such, the battery charger 1810does not have any exposed electrical connections. The primary coil 1815has a toroidal winding. This battery charger 1810, via the outlet ofcoil 1815, may correspond in shape and size to a charging plate having amounting surface suitable for supporting in close proximity withsubstantially spherical and oblate spheroid shaped throwable lightsources,

The light module 1820 may correspond approximately in shape and in sizeto a handheld, substantially spherical or substantially oblate spheroidshaped throwable light source, the housing of the throwable light sourcecomprising at least one connecting portion. The lighting module 1820comprises a power receiving device 1830 and, optionally, at least oneadditional power receiving device 1835; a battery 1840; and a lightsource 1860. The light module 1820 receives power from the coil 1815 ofthe battery charger 1810 through. the power receiving device 1830, anduses this to power light source 1860. An optional signal receiver 1870receives from the corresponding optional switching arrangement 1880, theswitching signal as represented by wireless transmission icon 1875 whichis used to control the light source. The optional signal receiver 1870is positioned in the housing, such that the switching signal 1875 isreceived wirelessly without exposed electrical connections between thelight module 1820 and switching arrangement 1880. An optional at leastone sensor 1871, which may comprise an orientation sensor to detect theorientation of the light module, is used to control the light source.The optional at least one sensor 1871 may comprise a sensor capable ofdetecting an external event, such as a movement by a person in closeproximity to the light module.

The power receiving device 1830 comprises a secondary coil 1831. Thesecondary coil 1831 is located in a connecting portion of the lighthousing and is positioned such that, when the light module 1820 issupported in close proximity to the battery charger 1810, the secondarycoil 1831 is close to the primary coil 1815 such that a voltage isinduced across the secondary coil 1831. The secondary coil 1831 also hasa toroidal winding, with a ring diameter such that the secondary coil1831 may fit within the primary coil 1815 when, for example, a convexexterior surface portion of housing of the light module 1820 is intendedto rest within a corresponding concave portion of the exterior surfaceof the housing of battery charger 1810. In this embodiment, the powerreceiving device 1830 comprises power controller 1832 for converting thepower received by the secondary coil 1831 into the power output 1837.

Optional power receiving device 1835 may be provided in parallel topower receiving device 1830, enabling the light module 1820 to meet inclose proximity with battery charger 1810 from an alternate orientation,with secondary coil 1834 in close proximity to primary coil 1815 andsecondary coil 1831 away from primary coil 1815. Optional powerreceiving device 1835 comprises power controller 1836 for converting thepower received by the secondary coil 1834 into the power output 1837.Additional power receiving devices in light module 1820 are anticipated.

The battery 1840 of the light module 1820 may be coupled to the poweroutput 1837 of the power receiving device 1830. In this way, the battery1840 may be charged by the power output 1837. Optionally, a batterycharge controller 1845 is provided for controlling the power used forcharging the battery 1840.

To allow the throwable lighting system to be switched on and off by auser located away from light module 1820, a light switch 1885 isprovided in the optional switching arrangement 1880. The switchingarrangement 1880 provides a wireless switching signal as represented bytransmission icon 1875 to the light module 1820 which may be used tocontrol whether a light source 1860 of the light module 1820 is on oroff. The light module 1820 receives power inductively from the batterycharger 1810 and passes this to battery 1840.

In this embodiment, the light module 1820 comprises a logic unit 1850for controlling the light source 1860. Logic unit 1850 may control thelight source depending on a signal from optional sensor 1871. The logicunit 1850 is coupled to the battery 1840 to power the light source 1860using the output of the battery 1840. In this embodiment, logic unit1850 comprises processor 1851 and memory 1852. Memory 1852 providestemporary storage of sensor data and data used by processor 1851 and maybe non-volatile memory for long-term storage and later recall ofsettings or data when light module 1820 is in a sleep or power-offstate.

Logic unit 1850 may control the light source depending on the switchingsignal as represented by transmission icon 1875.

An example throwable light source system of schematic 1800 isillustrated at 1900. Substantially spherical throwable light source 1910and substantially oblate spherical throwable light source 1950 aresupported on the upper surface of inductive charging device 1990.Throwable lights 1910 and 1950 are separated from electrical contactwith charging device 1990 by insulative plate 1996. Charging device 1990is comprised of a plurality of battery chargers 1810 each withrespective primary induction coils, and is hardwired to a main powersupply via power cable 1995.

As illustrated at 1900, the respective connecting portion of the lightmodule housings of throwable lights 191.0 and 1950 are configured tomeet in close proximity with a connecting portion of the housing ofcharging device 1990. In the embodiment shown of a spherical throwablelight source, the connecting portion of substantially sphericalthrowable light source 1910 has a planar stabilizing region 1905 toimprove a successful mounting with insulative surface 1996, such thatpower receiving device 1830 within throwable light source 1910 iscapable of being supported in close proximity to a battery charger 1810in charging device 1990.

As further described in this specification and illustrated by mass 951of FIG. 9, a spherical throwable light source may be advantaged byweighting means to ensure that the disposition of the light sourcearrives at a predetermined, self-righting orientation on a landingsurface. Another embodiment of a spherical throwable light sourcecomprises weighting means to combine the advantages of predeterminingthe landing orientation of the light source with the predeterminedorientation of the secondary coil of a power receiving device forinduction charging. This configuration allows a self-righting light tobe thrown to illuminate an environment in a predetermined angle withrespect to the landing surface (e.g. emitting light in a vector at anypredetermined orientation according to its center of gravity) while alsoenabling the light to be inductively charged after having been casuallythrown onto the upper surface of a battery charger. Weighting meanscauses the spherical housing to roll to an orientation best suited formating a secondary coil with the primary coil in the battery charger. Itis anticipated that further means such as a slightly convex depressionon the charging surface will improve alignment between primary andsecondary induction coils as the spherical housing comes to its restingposition.

In the example of an oblate spheroid shaped throwable light source, oneconnecting portion of substantially oblate spheroid shaped throwablelight source 1950 has planar stabilizing region 1955 to ensure a closeproximity to insulative surface 1996, such that power receiving device1830 within throwable light source 1950 is capable of being disposed inclose proximity to a battery charger 1810. In this example embodiment,power receiving device 1835, being positioned in the housing to alignits secondary coil in close proximity to planar region 1956, enablessubstantially oblate spheroid shaped throwable light source 1950 to betossed or rolled onto charging device 1990 without preference to eitherface of the substantially oblate spheroid shaped housing, ensuring asuccessful marriage of battery charger and power receiving device ineither a face up or face down orientation.

Pitching Machine Adaptations

It is anticipated that the throwable light of this invention may beprojected by a pitching machine, pneumatic cannon, or otherlong-distance pitching devices ordinarily used for pitching sports ballsincluding but not limited to baseballs and tennis ball pitchingmachines. For long range trajectories, a gas (CO₂)-powered launcher,such as used to tire paint-balls, is anticipated. Spring-poweredlaunchers and gunpowder-powered launchers can also be used to fireindividual lights, or groups of lights.

A spherical ball with a textured surface is advantageous in that itimproves aerodynamic performance by creating a thin layer of turbulenceand thereby reducing drag, a function of goofball dimples, baseballstitching, and tennis ball fuzz.

A textured surface also improves performance when the throwable light isused with commonly used pitching machines, such as dual-tire driventennis ball pitching machines, aiding the machine in its ability to gripthe ball firmly, reducing slippage associated with a smooth surface.

An embodiment of the throwable light source of this invention comprisesa spherical housing with a substantially smooth surface and a pattern ofperturbations distributed about the entire housing surface. Theperturbations may be indentations such as dimples or convex bumps of nomore than 0.25″ in width. While the preferred shape of a singleperturbation is a round concave dimple, it is anticipated thatperturbations may be tennis ball fuzz or convex pimples (as on abasketball) or varying in shape and size. To prevent the throwable lightsource from listing in a particular direction over the course of ahigh-speed trajectory, the preferred pattern of perturbations aredistributed with symmetry around the exterior surface of the housing.

While an oblate spheroid shaped throwable light is not suitable for usein common pitching machines, it is anticipated that surfaceperturbations may reduce drag when the apparatus is thrown or pitched inan airborne trajectory.

Anticipated Improvements

It is anticipated that all network devices including networked throwablelight sources, network sensors, network storage media, networkprocessors and client devices may require local storage for internaloperations including but not limited to RAM, flash storage and magneticmedia. It is further anticipated that network memory such as a fileserver may be used for temporary storage as well as archival storage.

It is anticipated that data communicated from one device to anotherdevice over a short-range wireless network can alternatively becommunicated via a wired connection such as USB or FireWire. Wirelesscommunications may include LAN, WAN, Internet-based connections, WIFI,Bluetooth, satellite and cloud-based systems.

It is anticipated that a light source projected into a trajectory mayroll, float, submerge, bounce or otherwise move to the endpoint of thetrajectory, the endpoint being the point at which the ball is at rest.The light source of this invention may benefit from operation at anyorientations and positions between and including its initial projectionpoint and its endpoint.

It is further anticipated that the throwable light source of thisinvention may remain continuously operational through its projectioninto a first trajectory, its arrival at a resting point, its stationaryposition during a resting period, and its projection into subsequenttrajectory. It is anticipated that the throwable light source of thisinvention may sleep at a resting point in order to conserve power, andawaken when thrown into a subsequent trajectory. It is furtheranticipated that the throwable light source of this invention may sleepduring the airborne portion of its trajectory to conserve power,awakening during the rolling portion of its trajectory, or at a restingpoint, or at a resting point between multiple trajectories. It isanticipated that a sensor may initiate a sleep mode, or an awaken mode.

It is anticipated that an instruction from a network device may commanda network light source to perform a function including but not limitedto synchronize timers between network devices; synchronize settingsbetween network devices; load settings from non-volatile memory; savesettings to non-volatile memory; initiate sleep mode; power off; poweron; reset to factory default state; initiate the firing of astroboscopic flash; initiate the activation of a continuousillumination; switch modes of operation; designate a master networklight source or a slave network light source; designate a frequency fortransmission over the network; switch network channels for communicationindependent of other network devices; enable or disable individualsensors required for operation of a light source; replace input from asensor with input from a sensor available from a network light source;relay instructions to and from a second network light source; reportstatus of any network light source; relay image and sensor data to andfrom any network device; serve as a wireless repeater of any receivedcommand for the extension of the range of the network. These exemplaryinstructions should be considered for descriptive purposes and not forpurposes of limitation.

It is anticipated that light sources and devices described herein willrequire components including but not limited to microprocessors, ROM andRAM memory. Light sources and devices described herein that do notexpressly comprise components including but not limited to processors,ROM and RAM memory should not be interpreted as having a limitationprecluding the light sources and devices from comprising and utilizingsuch components in any workflow.

The embodiments of light sources described herein are anticipated to beapplicable to electromagnetic radiation both visible to the human eyeand invisible, including but not limited to ultraviolet and near/farinfrared light sources.

It is anticipated that the throwable light source of this invention mayactivate illumination in response to a signal from one or more onboardevent sensors. Event sensors include but are not limited to orientationsensors, position sensors, motion sensors, range-finders, proximitysensors, audio sensors, microphones, light sensors, infrared sensors,vibration sensors, oxygen sensors, co sensors, co2 sensors, hydrogencyanide sensors, pressure sensors, altitude sensors and temperaturesensors. It is anticipated that object recognition technology capable ofidentifying a subject of interest may be employed as an event sensor.

It is anticipated that the throwable light source of this invention mayfocus illumination in a particular direction in response to a signalfrom one or more onboard event sensors. Among its advantages, thespotlighting a target of illumination advantages a throwable lightsource in concentrating power consumption.

It is anticipated that a throwable light source with a translucent ortransparent housing may be self-powered or enhanced by energy generatedby passive solar cells encapsulated beneath its exterior surface.

It is anticipated that while the throwable light source of thisinvention is expected to encounter aerodynamic forces when pitched intothe air, it is possible to create an embodiment that operates while in aliquid, for example in a recreational pool or in an ocean, and with allthe components working to create a desired effect for the operatingenvironment.

CONCLUSION

The foregoing Detailed Description has disclosed to those skilled in therelevant disciplines how to make and use the system for operating imagecapture systems of the invention and has also disclosed the best modepresently known to the inventor of making and using such system. It willhowever be immediately apparent to those skilled in the relevantdisciplines that image capture systems made according to the principlesof the invention may be implemented in many ways other than the waysdisclosed herein. For all of the foregoing reasons, the DetailedDescription is to be regarded as being in all respects exemplary and notrestrictive, and the breadth of the invention disclosed herein is to bedetermined not from the Detailed Description, but rather from the claimsas interpreted with the full breadth permitted by the patent laws.

1. A throwable lighting apparatus comprising: a light comprising ahousing suitable for being thrown or projected into an airbornetrajectory, said housing comprising a light transmitting surfaceportion; the light adapted to receive an associated battery charger;wherein the light further comprises: a battery disposed within thehousing; a processor within the housing operably connected to thebattery; a light source within the housing operably connected to theprocessor; an electrical input operably connected to the batterycomprising at least one coil within the housing arranged to receive apower signal inductively from the associated battery charger; the lightbeing arranged to present the at least one coil for cooperating with acoil in the associated battery charger.
 2. The throwable lightingapparatus of claim 1 wherein the impact-resistant housing issubstantially spherical.
 3. The throwable lighting apparatus of claim 2,wherein the light is arranged to position the at least one coil adjacentto at least one respective planar charging surface on the exteriorsurface of the substantially spherical housing.
 5. The throwablelighting apparatus of claim 2 wherein the exterior surface of thehousing has a substantially smooth surface and a pattern ofperturbations distributed about said surface to reduce slippage in apitching machine and reduce drag when pitched into an airbornetrajectory.
 6. The throwable lighting apparatus of claim 2 wherein thelight further comprises weighting means for producing angular momentumaround an axis of rotation.
 7. The throwable lighting apparatus of claim6 wherein the exterior surface of the housing has a perturbation for auser's finger to identify the orientation of the axis of rotation. 8.The throwable lighting apparatus of claim 1 wherein the housing is asubstantially oblate spheroid shape.
 9. The throwable lighting apparatusof claim 8, wherein the light is arranged to position the at least onecoil adjacent to at least one respective planar charging surface on theexterior surface of the oblate spheroid shaped housing; wherein the atleast one charging surface is substantially parallel to the equator andsubstantially perpendicular to the polar axis of the oblate spheroidshaped housing.
 10. The throwable lighting apparatus of claim 8 whereinthe light further comprises weighting means for producing angularmomentum around the polar axis.
 11. The throwable lighting apparatus ofclaim 10 wherein the housing has a surface perturbation or indentationfor tactile confirmation by the user's hand to identify the orientationof the polar axis.
 12. The throwable lighting apparatus of claim 1wherein the light source is at least one LED emitting visible light. 13.The throwable lighting apparatus of claim 1 wherein the light source isat least one LED emitting infrared radiation.
 14. The throwable lightingapparatus of claim 1 wherein the light further comprises an orientationsensor; the processor controlling the state of the light sourceaccording to a signal from the orientation sensor.
 15. The throwablelighting apparatus of claim 1 wherein the light further comprises ahaptic feedback device operably connected to the processor; theprocessor controlling the flow of electricity to the haptic feedbackdevice in response to a signal from the orientation sensor.
 16. Thethrowable lighting apparatus of claim 15 wherein the haptic feedbackdevice is a vibrating motor.
 17. A throwable lighting apparatuscomprising: a housing suitable for being thrown or projected into anairborne trajectory, the housing forming a hermetic seal to insulateembedded electrical components from exposure to the exteriorenvironment; the housing comprising a light transmitting surfaceportion; a battery disposed within the housing; a processor within thehousing operably connected to the battery; a light source within thehousing operably connected to the processor and powered by the battery;an inertial sensor operably connected to the processor; the processorconfigured to detect a movement of a user's wrist in response to asignal from the inertial sensor; wherein the processor controls theactivation state of the light source in response to the detectedmovement.
 18. The lighting apparatus of claim 17 further comprising ahaptic feedback device operably connected to the processor; theprocessor controlling the flow of electricity to the haptic feedbackdevice in response to a signal from the inertial sensor.
 19. Thelighting apparatus of claim 18 wherein the haptic feedback device is avibrating motor.
 20. The lighting apparatus of claim 17 furthercomprising a timer to delay activation of the light source by apredetermined time.